Originally published in 1900, PREFACE: This book is an attempt briefly to recite the chief uses of fire, electricity, and photography, bringing the narrative of discovery and invention to the close of 1899. In covering so much ground it has been necessary to choose from a vast array of facts such of them as are fairly representative, laying stress upon those whose proven importance or high promise gives them most prominence in the public mind. ....Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900's and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.